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Home Travel Food & Drink

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort: Soothe Your Soul in Sri Lanka

Experience one of the top luxury hotels in Asia

by Flo
December 31, 2016 - Updated on December 26, 2020
in Food & Drink, Hotel Reviews, Travel
34
Anantara Tangalle Pool View
Lagoon in south Sri Lanka with text overlay Woman in pool in Sri Lanka with text overlay

Ayubowan! As you step out of the vehicle and walk towards the reception you are greeted by smiling staff with their palms together in front of the heart. Ayubowan is a Sri Lankan greeting that means “may you live long” – how lovely is that? We had visited the restaurants at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle a few times as outside guests, and I had always wondered what it would be like to stay overnight at this luxury hotel in Sri Lanka. Since staying here for the first time in 2016 we have returned time and time again to soak up the best of Sri Lankan hospitality.

Entryway to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Visiting Sri Lanka? Click here for the full list of 12 things you should know before your trip!

Pool and grounds at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Prepare for all of your worries to melt away as you step into the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle: we were welcomed with a cold, lemongrass-scented wet towel, a cup of king coconut water and three beautiful ladies singing and tapping on a traditional Sri Lankan drum. Our villa manager/Sri Lankan guardian angel, Kanishka, led us over to an e-bike rickshaw and we were whisked away to our villa; the 152-room hotel sits on 42 acres of beachfront land!

The Rooms at Anantara Tangalle

Private pool villa at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

There are several different options available and Anantara offers both rooms and standalone villas. During our first stay, we were luckily upgraded and my jaw dropped when we arrived at the ocean view pool villa. We were given a tour of the beautiful master bedroom, bathroom, private terrace and salt-water pool before sitting down for the in-room check-in procedures.

Private pool at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Before leaving us to jump on the bed like 6-year-olds, Kanishka wrote down his direct phone number and asked us to call if we needed anything: luggage unpacking service, room service, restaurant reservations, laundry, a ride in a golf buggy to anywhere in the hotel we wanted to go, more towels, anything. He had also booked us a foot massage as a welcome gift and no less than 5 minutes later, 2 staff from the Anantara spa had showed up at our villa to soothe our tootsies.

Anantara Tangalla Pool Villa in Sri Lanka

The villa was absolutely humongous. The master bedroom is luxurious but cozy, glamorous but comfortable, and I got quite possibly the best night’s sleep in a long while in the king-sized bed. Best. Mattress. Ever. The room also had a massive smart TV with dozens of channels and free movies, Bose bluetooth speaker, Nespresso machine and coffee capsules (free of charge), kettle, mini-fridge stocked with goodies and plenty of fresh fruit.

Bathroom at pool villa at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Step into the bathroom and you may never want to leave. The bathroom had two sinks, a freestanding bathtub, the dreamiest rain shower and every amenity you could need. On the other side of the shower is a built-in wardrobe and drawers, luggage rack and safe.

Bathtub at private villa at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

If the room wasn’t impressive enough, just take a look at this pool. This wonderful little private infinity pool is where we spent the better part of the afternoon, soaking up the sunshine and listening to tunes. Perfection.

Private pool at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

We have also stayed in the “standard” garden view and ocean view rooms – you can expect the same high-quality furnishings that are featured in the private villas.

Ocean view room at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

The Facilities & Food at Anantara Tangalle

Pool at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle offers a tennis court, badminton court, fitness center, 2 swimming pools, kids club, spa, surf lessons, yoga classes, beach cabanas, just to name a few! The main 25 metre infinity pool offers in-water lounge chairs, a poolside mojito cart and pool bar so you always have a drink in hand; the pool cascades down into a shallower, smaller pool that is also surrounded by lounge chairs. You will never ever have to fight someone for a pool chair at Anantara, of that I am certain.

Beach at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

The beach is just steps away from the pool and is a stunning rocky bay – it is, however, not always swimmable due to strong currents. The best time to visit if your heart is set on swimming in the ocean is from December to April.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle also houses 3 main restaurants: Il Mare (Italian), Journeys (International) and Verele (Teppanyaki). The food is, put simply, delectable. Even when we aren’t staying at Anantara we often frequent Il Mare for dinner and Journeys for the best breakfast buffet in Sri Lanka.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle in Sri Lanka

Let me talk you through this magical breakfast buffet spread: Western classics including sausages (chicken and pork), baked beans, eggs, hash browns and 3 types of bacon; Sri Lankan dishes; cold cut platters; all the carbs you could ever need in this lifetime (including a pastry chef who walks around with a tray of freshly baked chocolate croissants); yoghurt, fresh fruit and cereal and a juice station. There’s even a gluten-free section!

Breakfast buffet at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

The coffee served at Journeys is an experience in and of itself. It comes on a tray with cinnamon sticks, rock sugar sticks (brown and white), biscotti and sparkling water to ~cleanse the palate~.

Coffee at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

I also have never and will never say no to a white sangria. Ever.

White sangria pitcher at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

My tip for anyone staying at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka is to head to Verele just before sunset for happy hour, mosey on over to Il Mare for the sunset and a decadent dinner. Every dish I’ve tried at Il Mare has been top notch and authentically Italian (the restaurant manager is from Turin, a city in northern Italy), and dessert is a necessity when dining there. I have 3 words for you: chocolate. lava. cake!

Restaurant at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

The Service at Anantara Tangalle

Passionfruit by the pool at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka

Where do I even begin? The service at Anantara goes beyond excellent. Service with a smile? No, more like service with soul. Every single staff member we crossed paths with said hello and flashed their pearly whites, and everyone we spoke with was genuinely friendly, kind and helpful: it’s the kind of warmth that you can’t fake.

Our villa manager was the most accommodating and thoughtful person – no task was too small and no task was too big. I’m fairly sure that he would have donated part of his liver if one of us needed a transplant (well not really, but you get the idea).

Things to Do in Tangalle

Elephants in Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka

If you want to step outside of the resort and explore the area, there are plenty of options. You can go on a safari to Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park, head to Galle Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the temple in Gandara, tour a tea plantation and more. For more ideas head to my guide to Sri Lanka’s south coast.

Getting to Anantara Tangalle

The resort is located in the southern part of Sri Lanka and is a 3 and a half hour drive from Bandaranaike International Airport. There are also domestic flights from Colombo to Dickwella town but make sure you check the schedule as these currently only operate once a day.

Decor at Anantara Tangelle in Sri Lanka

All-in-all, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle is one of the most extraordinary places I have ever stayed. When it is time to check-out and leave the hotel, the staff performs a traditional Sri Lankan farewell ceremony and says another round of Ayubowan greetings. You will leave desperately wishing that youcould have stayed another night. When you stay at Anantara you 1) never need to leave the property because they have almost everything you could ever hope for, 2) are treated with the highest level of hospitality, and 3) will almost certainly count down to your next visit. 

Click here to book your stay at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle!

Lagoon at Anantara Tangalle in Sri Lanka

Are you thinking about visiting Sri Lanka or have you stayed at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle before? I’d love to hear from you below!

You might also enjoy:

  • Since Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle opened in early 2016, the chain has opened a brand new property further up the west coast of Sri Lanka in Kalutara. You can read my full review of Anantara Kalutara here!
  • Southern Sri Lanka is one of the best regions to explore around the island. Here is my ultimate south Sri Lanka guide
  • For even more recommendations for luxury and boutique hotels in Sri Lanka check out this guide
  • Looking for more ideas of things to do while you’re in Sri Lanka? Read my 2-week itinerary around the island
  • Head on over here for more Sri Lanka travel tips and destination guides

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I stayed at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle as a paying customer, the opinions on Yogawinetravel.com are, and always will be, my own!

This article contains an affiliate link. If you choose to book using this link, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my website by using this link, I only recommend products or services that I have personally used & hotels I have visited and loved. 

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Comments 34

  1. Nam says:
    4 years ago

    Ok i am so sold! Putting this on my must stay for Sri Lanka! Raeally need tobvisit now after reading all your posts!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      If you end up looking into flights, Sri Lankan Air has a flight that goes via BKK (technical stop) and the fare is half of Cathay’s!

      Reply
  2. karen says:
    4 years ago

    This looks amazing! The infinity pool looks AMAZING. Nice hotel!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      I keep going back for the great food and would love to stay there again soon!

      Reply
  3. Anisa says:
    4 years ago

    Wow that is luxurious! I would love to visit Sri Lanki one day, so will definitely keep this resort in mind!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      They have great deals too, Anisa! If you sign up to be a loyalty member you get 10% off immediately IIRC 🙂

      Reply
  4. Katherine says:
    4 years ago

    Oh my god this place looks amazing! If we ever go back to Sri Lanka I’m booking us in 🙂

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      You must, Katherine! They have a special deal where if you book online, you get $50 in resort credit 🙂

      Reply
  5. Tasha says:
    4 years ago

    Wow this resort looks incredible! You were so lucky to get upgraded to a room with a private pool too. I’m heading to Sri Lanka next year and wish I had the budget to stay somewhere like this. What an experience. Will also be checking out your 2-week itinerary post.

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      I hope you find the 2 week itinerary helpful, Tasha!

      Reply
  6. Kristine says:
    4 years ago

    The things they do to make you feel absolutely welcomed as a guest! That private pool looks like heaven. What a wonderful stay you had!

    I hope to try Anantara for myself one day 🙂

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      I only wish we could have stayed a few more nights! I hope you make it to Anantara Tangalle one day!

      Reply
  7. Claudi says:
    4 years ago

    Wow, this place looks amazing. The breakfast buffet had to be delicious and the pool area too. I can imagine that you had an awesome time there. Thanks for all the tips and things to do! I keep that in mind if I’ll plan a trip to Sri Lanka 🙂 #FlyAwayFriday

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      Thanks for checking this out, Claudi! Let me know if you make it to Sri Lanka 🙂

      Reply
  8. Courtney says:
    4 years ago

    This place looks like an absolute DREAM! I can definitely imagine myself lounging by that pool (with a few mojitos).

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      They have a champagne cart as well, Courtney!

      Reply
  9. Susanna Kelly says:
    4 years ago

    What a lovely place! Looks like they really went above and beyond to make you feel welcome. I will definitely keep them in mind if I make it to Sri Lanka!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      I hope you make it to SL soon, Susanna!

      Reply
  10. Sagar Kole says:
    4 years ago

    Wow! Fantastic & luxurious resort. I would love to relax in that pool. I hope I will get a chance to visit Shri-Lanka & I would definitely visit Anantara. Thanks dear for sharing.

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      Thanks for taking the time to read this!

      Reply
  11. Kelsy says:
    4 years ago

    Loved this, and the beautiful pictures. Looks pretty dreamy to me. I have been reading great thinks about Sri Lanka, thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      It’s an amazing country, Kelsy!

      Reply
  12. Jasmine from My Suitcase Journeys says:
    4 years ago

    Love the way they welcomed you and said farewell! They really went in for the brownie points there! Sounds like a super beautiful and serene stay and seems like you had a blast in Sri Lanka too! Happy New Year!!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      Happy new year Jas! There’s so much to love about Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan hospitality 🙂

      Reply
  13. Arzo Travels says:
    4 years ago

    Love the review Flo! I stayed at an Anantara in Dubai once and fell in love. This one actually looks even bigger and brighter, and such beautiful pictures.

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      I absolutely love this chain, Arzo! The service is impeccable and the properties are so gorgeous. Thanks for checking this out!

      Reply
  14. Chloe says:
    4 years ago

    This place looks amazing!!! What beautiful grounds and that elephant is so freaking cute!! I would love to go here someday!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      It’s SUCH a stunning property! We can’t seem to stay away 🙂

      Reply
  15. Kana says:
    4 years ago

    Wow that resort looks beautiful! I love the infinity pool and the close proximity to the beach! I have to say though, the baked goods and food looks DELICIOUS 😀 Thanks for joining #FlyAwayFriday!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      4 years ago

      Everytime I go I end up having way too many chocolate croissants!

      Reply
  16. Akbar says:
    3 years ago

    Hi Flo,

    Great blog, loved the tips on the hotel and Sri Lanka. I am visiting this hotel in June and just wanted to know an idea of what the weather will be like (I have seen several different opinions). Also, wanted an idea on how expensive the facilities in the hotel are (dining, spa, etc) and is there anything to do near the hotel ?

    Any ideas/suggestions would be very helpful. Thanks

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      3 years ago

      Hi Akbar,

      Thanks for commenting – I just stayed there for the third time a few nights ago because we love it so much! The weather in June will be hot and humid, and the beach is already entering off-season conditions which means it will be too rough to swim in the ocean. However, the pools are really stunning (upper and lower level). There might be spells of rain in June, but in my experience it tends to rain in the evenings and there will be lots of sunshine during the day.

      The dining is very reasonable, but the alcohol/cocktails are very pricey unless you’re sticking to local beer. The spa is not cheap either, but they do use very high quality spa products. There are a number of things to do around the hotel and you will be able to visit Galle Fort (a UNESCO heritage site) which is just over 1.5 hours away by car, or visit Udawalawe/Yala National Parks for a wildlife safari. I have additional guides on Sri Lanka here: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/travel/sri-lanka/

      We keep going back to Anantara Tangalle because the service is impeccable and the rooms/property are stunning. Have a great trip!

      Reply
  17. Reto says:
    1 year ago

    Hi Flo,
    Many thanks for the great review.
    Which kind of room would you recommend – beach access or ocean view?
    Is a 2 week stay in this resort too long or are they enough places to visit around?
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Flo says:
      1 year ago

      Hi Reto,

      Ocean view is good enough and not far from the beach in the slightest. I think 2 weeks is a little too long in Tangalle as it is on the southwest end of the island. You might want to consider spending 3-4 nights here before moving over east towards Galle (I recommend staying in the Talalla area). If you have 2 weeks in Sri Lanka you can actually cover a lot of ground, not just along the south coast. Here is a 2 week itinerary for Sri Lanka: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/see-sri-lanka-a-two-week-itinerary-for-the-pearl-of-the-indian-ocean/

      Alternatively, if your heart is set on a coastal beach vacation then here are some ideas for what to do along the south coast: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-sri-lankas-south-coast/

      I hope you find these articles helpful!

      Flo

      Reply

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Hello!

Hi! My name is Flo. I'm a wanderlusting yogi who won’t say no to a good white sangria. I believe that travel and yoga are important avenues to experience new stories, lifestyles, culture and views - join me on Yoga, Wine & Travel as I share destination & travel guides, tips and hacks as well as stories from my Yoga journey! Read more about me and Yoga, Wine & Travel here.

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